Day 1 Arrival in Lima
Arrival in Lima, the "City of Kings" famous for its Spanish Colonial architecture and extraordinary museums.
$3819 per person in double for 2014 Departures: Saturdays
Minimum 2 persons - Maximum group size is 12 persons
Peru... home to one of the earliest and most advanced civilizations in the Western Hemisphere... Under the rule of powerful kings, an incredible people known as the Incas amassed an empire that built systems of winding mountain roads, remarkable cities, and an unforgettable legacy. One is still mystified today by their amazing accomplishments, as can be seen at the hidden and fascinating Machu Picchu... Take a trip back in time and explore the roots of an ancient civilization that left behind some of the most interesting and awe-inspiring constructions in the world.
Lima, Cusco, Chincheros, Pisac, Ollantaytambo Fortress and Machu Picchu
Arrival in Lima, the "City of Kings" famous for its Spanish Colonial architecture and extraordinary museums.
Afternoon tour of Modern and Colonial Lima including the world famous Larco Museum - This half-day tour visits both the colonial and modern sections of Lima. Colonial sites include the lovely Plaza Mayor, the GovernmentPalace, San FranciscoChurch and the exquisite TorreTaglePalace modern day seat of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In modern Lima, drive along the exclusive residential areas of Miraflores and San Isidro. Continue to the LarcoMuseum, founded in 1926, it displays remarkable chronological galleries providing an excellent overview on 3000 years of development of Peruvian pre-Columbian history. Located in a unique vice-royal mansion of the 18th century built over a 7th century pre-Columbian pyramid is surrounded by beautiful gardens. The LarcoMuseum also features the finest gold and silver collection from Ancient Peru and the famous erotic archaeological collection, one of the most visited Peruvian tourist attractions. (AB B)
Early morning transfer from the hotel to the airport for a short but spectacular flight over the snowcapped Andes to the oldest inhabited city in the hemisphere, Cusco, at an elevation of 11,440 feet.
Afternoon tour of Cusco and nearby Ruins - Visitors are caught up in the excitement of the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Cusco is a delightful combination of Inca and Colonial architecture. The tour includes a visit to the Cathedral and Santo DomingoChurch, passing the main streets and Plaza de Armas. Tour continues to the nearby archaeological sites of Kenko, Puca-Pucara, Tambomachay and to the Sacsayhuaman fortress. (ABB)
Excursion to Chincheros, Pisac and Ollantaytambo in Urubamba, The Sacred Valley of the Incas – Departure to the unspoiled Andean village of Chincheros for a spectacular weaving demonstration by Nilda Callañaupa. Nilda learned to weave as a child while tending the flocks in the fields of her village. When she was a teenager, Nilda worked with researchers on preserving the traditional themes and techniques of weaving in the Andean community. As an adult, Nilda traveled extensively to the U.S. to organize weaving exhibits and workshops in several universities and the Textile Museum of Washington D.C. Nilda offers an indigenous, multi-faceted perspective on the arts, as well as excellent facilitation and communication skills. She is truly a one of a kind artist. She will be happy to lead a relaxed, fascinating workshop on traditional back strap weaving techniques and a discussion on the role of weaving in a contemporary Andean culture. Continue to the Spanish Colonial village of Pisac where an Indian Market takes place Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Other days you will tour the religious nucleus and archaeological site of Pisac. After lunch the tour continues through the sacred valley of the Incas to visit thetown of Ollantaytambo and the imposing Inca Fortress. Return to Cusco. Lunchis at a beautiful country estate on the shores of the UrubambaRiver. (ABB,L)
Full Day Excursion to Machu Picchu - Morning train ride aboard the most luxurious railway service in South America to enjoy the unbelievable sights of the "Lost City of the Incas," Machu Picchu. Perched 8,200 feet above the valley, it was hidden by mountains and semi-tropical jungles for 400 years until discovered by Hiram Bingham of YaleUniversity in 1911. Archaeologists believe that the Inca "Virgins of the Sun" took refuge from the Spanish Conquistadors here. Guided tour of the Sanctuary and plenty of free time to study the mysterious site. Brunch and four-course dinner and cocktails are aboard the Hiram Bingham. Afternoon “Tea Time Goodies” at the Orient Express Sanctuary Lodge, located just a few steps from the Inca citadel is also included. (ABB,L,D)
Transfer from hotel to the airport for your departure to Lima and your connecting international flight. Arrive home full of great memories of the rich tradition of Colonial Lima and the mystical Land of the Incas. (ABB)
*** End Of Our Services ***
Departures: Saturdays. Semi-Private, maximum 12 persons
2016 Prices per person: Prices are available upon request.
Low Season: Nov 15 to Dec 20. High Season: Jun 1 to Nov 14, Dec 21 to Dec 31
Not included:
Airfare into Lima and on to Cusco. Airport departure taxes, $7.40 for domestic flights, $31.00 for international flights. Tips to drivers and tour guides.
Why the Hiram Bingham Luxury Train Service
Simply put; it will be an unforgettable experience! It is the most luxurious railway service in South America. You will not have to get up too early in the morning since the Hiram Bingham departs Poroy train station at 9:00 am You will arrive at Machu Picchu when the crowds are leaving the site and you will practically have the Sanctuary for yourself.
Aboard the Hiram Bingham
The Hiram Bingham carries passengers on a spectacular journey through changing landscapes, passing lush fields, colorful villages and the wonderful vistas of the beautiful Andes.Departing from Poroy Station (20 minutes from Cusco) at 9 am, the Hiram Bingham gives a more leisurely start to the day than traditional departures. Brunch is served on board and tour guides are present to explain points of interest en route, as well as in the Ruins at Machu Picchu.Afternoon Tea is served at the Machu Picchu Sanctuary Lodge, located just steps from the ancient citadel. Once back on board for the 6.30 pm departure, pre-dinner cocktails are served, accompanied by live entertainment and a 4-course, à la Carte dinner.